No “white” Christmas in your region of the world this year? Albeit its catchy name not even this camera stabilizer can offer comfort, but it can make your shots more stable. Snow is advertised as the first “mechnical 3-axis gimbal”.
When taking a closer look it becomes clear that Snow has nothing to do with Christmas and is also not a “gimbal stabilizer” in the usual sense, but rather a steadicam with a new and interesting approach of operation that has apparently been inspired by brushless gimbal stabilizer systems.
One thing that is clearly different to other steadicams is that the counterweight is a tank filled with water. On their website the manufacturer explains the effect like this:
“In the swinging tank the damped flowing fluid changes the center of gravity while forces the rig to stay vertical.”
Looking at the video that shows off the benefits in comparison to a normal counterweight, the idea becomes more clear. On the other hand everyone who has used a normal steadicam knows that it would stop swinging just as quickly as the water tank version, which makes the video a little misleading or questionable at least.
Anyway. The approach to operate the device looks like a good idea as it seems controlling the camera stabilizer is easier than a normal steadicam, which is one of the major benefits of electronic brushless gimbal systems.
The device is targeted at “indie shooters” and available for $550 for early birds and if it delivers the promised benefits this seems like an good price comparable to other affordable steadicam systems.
Watch the full video below to find out all the benefits of the Snow camera stabilizer.
The Indiegogo campaign just went live and their goal of $15,000 doesn’t seem to hard to reach. The Snow camera stabilizer is estimated to start shipping in February of 2016.

A new Kickstarter campaign might interest owners of action cameras. solidLUUV is a compact camera stabilizer for cameras up to 1.1 lbs.
Filmmakers always seems to be on the lookout for new camera stabilization options. We recently posted this article about a new stabilizer from Sachtler that can handle a payload up to 30kg (66 lbs). But what if you’re looking for a stabilizer for a smaller payload? Perhaps around 1 lb? If you shoot on a GoPro or similar camera then this Kickstarter campaign might be one for you to check out.
The solidLUUV is a compact camera stabilizer for cameras weighing up to 1.1 lbs (500 grams). So, this would include GoPros and other action cameras, along with smartphones and other compact cameras. It features a 3-axis mechanical stabilizer, and from mere appearance looks very user friendly. When combined with the GoPro Hero4, for example, the total weight would be 1.5 lbs (680 grams). They also have another model called ultraLUUV which adds a 3-axis electronic stabilizer.
Now, if you look at their Kickstarter page it is obvious they are marketing this product to all compact camera users, not just professionals. And while some pros frown upon such consumer products, and do not view a smartphone as a professional choice for a shooting format under any circumstance, it’s become acceptable to use an action camera like a GoPro. It may serve a very niche market for professionals, but those shooting on such compact formats might benefit from checking into this.
The campaign lasts until October 31, and for a pledge of €99 ($110 USD) you can reserve a solidLUUV for estimated delivery in April 2016.
solidLUUV Tech Specs
Size: 9.8 in (25 cm) x 3.5 in (9 cm)
Weight: solidLUUV with GoPro Hero4: 1.5 lbs (680 grams)
Weight range: Compatible with cameras up t0 1.1 lbs (500 grams)
Material: V2A stainless steel; PC/ABS; TPU
ultraLUUV Tech Specs
Size: 13 in (33 cm) x 3.5 in (9 cm)
Weight: ultraLUUV with GoPro Hero4: 1.8 lbs (800 grams)
Stabilization: 3-axis 360 degree coverage (panning/tilting/rolling)
Mount: Quick release for all GoPro-sized cameras with or without LCD BacPac (Height: 33-46 mm)
Batteries: 2x 900mah 3.7v rechargeable Li-ion batteries
Battery Life: 2-4 hours

Check out this Kickstarter of the BeeWorks 5 camera stabilizer, a lightweight 3-axis gimbal device with a unique Kinetic Remote that follows the physical movement of the operator.
The BeeWorks 5 (or BW05) is a an all aluminum, sleek design that does well in slenderizing the form factor of a motored camera stabilizer; all motors and wires are hidden and the battery tucks up into the arm.
It can proudly self classify as lightweight, coming in nearly 3/4s of a pound lighter than the Movi M5 at 4.06lbs.
It has internal cable runs for USB and HDMI that run through the carriage to the handle, which are handy for powering the camera/wireless remote and monitoring.
The stand is multi-functional, it has an array of 1/4 20″ threads on the base sides and spine meaning it can mount to a variety of suction mounts and other industry stand rigging.
Further more, the overall design is compact, with the stand and remote it packs down into a single carry on size case. The payload of the BeeWorks 5 stabilizer is reflects, clearly targeted at small DSLRs and mirrorless cameras such as the Sony A7S with a maximum weight of 5lbs.
The BW05 is powered by 3 processors, one of which an ARM Cortex-M4. The device can be connected to via Bluetooth for fine tuning of motors, and has an auto stabilize function that kicks in upon the point of switching on for quick use.
Moving onto to the BW5s USP, the top package is inclusive of the Kinetic Remote. This remote has a sensor that mimics the movement exhibited by the operator and translates this to the orientation of the gimbal. Check out this brilliant Cachorro Dançando-esque test video:
Packages start at $2,740 for the basic package. For more info on the BW05 and its rewards schemes check out the Kickstarter page.

Ever since its introduction at NAB 2013 with the help of Vincent Laforet, Freefly’s MōVI handheld camera stabilizing system has been the most-talked about camera stabilizing system bar none. While its gyro-powered mechanics are nothing new, the small package and the ability to handhold such a rig are big innovations that make cinematographers phantasize about camera movements that were considerably

Here we are again, another 3-axis camera stabilizer. The Ghost is currently working its way through the ranks of Kickstarter; with an already successful campaign exceeding it’s initial pledge.
The Ghost beats the DEFY G2 in its weight capacity. Excitingly offering support for camera setups up to 3.5lbs. For reference, a 5D mark iii and 24-105mm IS L lens is within this range at 3.36 lbs.